Issue 9 | Volume 106

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University November 18, 2025

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Autumn Dash 5K & food drive Emma Tyler Asst. News Editor

Courtesy of Bridgette Smith

Ragtag Running and Morning Grind partnered to fight hunger with the aid of their second annual Autumn Dash 5K in Oconee River Greenway on Saturday, Nov. 15.

Because the Autumn Dash 5K garnered 650 food cans last year, their new goal was to reach 1,000 food cans which will all be donated to Cafe Central.

Cafe Central, located at Freedom Church, is a food pantry which serves guests every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. by welcoming, seating and taking orders for

drinks and food based on a menu they provide. The guests are allowed to eat as much as they would like, including bread and dessert.

The cafe serves over 400 meals weekly and more than 1,000 meals each Thanksgiving.

“I honestly think it just gives an outlet to people that want to do something, but they don’t necessarily know how, or they don’t know how to get involved,” said Bridgette Smith, owner of Morning Grind.

“This is just an easy connection for them, and they can support a great cause as far as bring-

ing the goods and stuff while also running a 5K. I think it’s great we’re giving back to Milledgeville because it’s where we’re centralized at.”

In pursuit of consistency, the race was very similar to last year’s with the same running course and sponsors. They have one new sponsor who will be revealed on race day, which is not intended to be a huge surprise, rather another local effort that seeks to fight hunger.

Runners in the event felt as though their contributions were truly making a difference for the community.

See AUTUMN DASH | Page 3

GCSU students debate the right time for holiday decor Lucy Nunez

in the month of October but

tions. Students report walk-

as soon as it hit Nov. 1, I went

ing into TJMaxx and Five

to Walmart and TJMaxx with

Below and hearing Christ-

my roommates and browsed

mas music while shopping.

the Christmas sections,” said

“My friends and I went to

Caitlin McGarvey, a senior

TJMaxx and Five Below yes-

mass communications major.

terday and heard the songs

“The holiday season brings

Jingle Bells and Sleigh Ride,”

me joy and seeing the decora-

said John Meadows, a ju-

start of the fall season. Some

tions in store early makes the

nior marketing major. “Stores

students argue that this is the

excitement so much bigger.”

have caught on to the spir-

lights, cheer and communi-

reason they are inspired to dive

The coziness of the hol-

it early and are marketing

ty all around. Another argu-

into the Christmas spirit Nov. 1.

iday season is also brought

to early holiday shoppers.”

ment made for diving right

“I was all about Halloween

to stores with music selec-

The holiday season brings

into Christmas is the joy of

Staff Writer With Halloween recently passing, students have debated the right time to start decorating their apartments and dorms for the holiday season.

Stores have prepared for the holiday season early by putting out decorations as soon as the

GCSU season preview

A glimpse into women’s basketball Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor Georgia College & State University opened its women’s basketball season in Franklin Springs, Georgia, as the program battled hard against Young Harris College in the season opener on Friday, Nov. 14, and Emmanuel University on Saturday, Nov. 15.

The Bobcats’ women’s basketball team has yet to collect their first win, losing to Young Harris 61-49 and Emmanuel 62-49. The program underwent several changes during the offseason, losing nine seniors from the previous season: Chandler Davis, Evie DePetro, Alexis Figures,

Cierra Foster, Camryn James, Miracle Parker, Jada Warren, Ashyia Willis and Amelia Wylly. The team also lost one of its top scorers in Hannah Cail, who transferred to the University of North Georgia.

The most significant change is the change in coaching. With the departure of former head coach Ross Jolly, interim head coach Catrina Green has stepped up, receiving nothing but positive feedback from her athletes thus far.

“I am super excited,” said Bailey Vick, a senior on the women’s basketball team. “I really love the way that Coach Green has changed the culture for our team,

and given us a lot more positivity, switching up the whole atmosphere for the team. She’s given us a lot more feedback and allowed us to play at our own pace.”

“We had her as an assistant last year, so we’re very familiar,” said Natalia Bolden, a senior on the women’s basketball team. “Her transitioning to our head coach has been great. I love her system.

She’s very passionate about things outside of basketball. She really cares about our experience and priorities like school and our mental health, rather than solely our performance.”

See PREVIEW | Page 4

Julia Jensen | Art Director

seeing the decorations for a longer amount of time.

See HOLIDAY DECOR | Page 6

RENOVATIONS PLANS FOR CENTRAL STATE HOSPITAL Amelia McEwen News Editor Central State Hospital is being invested in today by a company hoping to transform three of the buildings into apartments, a conference room and a hotel, after previous threats of demolition.

The Central State Hospital is known around the world for being the US’s largest psychiatric hospital in the mid-1900s. Since its abandonment, the state has long debated what to do with its remaining buildings.

Its three historic buildings, the Walker, Jones and Green

buildings, were originally set to be demolished. Now, Ambryo Designs has planned to invest $40 million to revamp the structures and preserve the hospital’s influential history.

“The hospital makes GCSU unique from other schools,” said Simran Puri, a junior mass communication major. “It brings history to Milledgeville as it has been here for years.”

Central State Hospital’s history relates to its patient abuse and controversial lobotomy and electric shock therapy practices. The preservation of this hospital’s dark history would ulti-

mately uphold the progress of community-based mental health care and prevent future incidents of the same nature.

“The hospital is an ancient, historical building that offers a reflection of the past,” said Jackson Cruse, a junior nursing major. “It employed a large chunk of the population and it has a very storied legacy.”

Historians and residents disagree with the idea of Central State Hospital’s demolition because of their desire to prevent historical malpractices and to educate others on its history.

See CENTRAL STATE | Page 3

NEWS | PG. 4

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 6

Serena Semere’s journey to ecoming GCSU’s SGA President

Asst. Sports Editor gives his opinon on the players announced

Here are some tips and tricks for staying From pictures, to letters, to Thanksgiving recipes balanced depsite academic burnout.

SGA PRESIDENT SHOUTOUT

MLB’S ERA COMMITTEE ARE YOU BURNTOUT? BALLOT

THE CATERWAUL| PG. 8

STUDENTS’ VOICES AT GCSU

2

AMELIA MCEWEN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA TYLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

11.18.2025

NEWS Central State scribed Ambryo Designs’ changes would bene- nearly 12,000 patients the American South, The plans for renova-

Continued from page 1

According to a Georgia Public Broadcasting article,

“The

planned

demolition has prompted outcry from historic preservationists and local citizens, who argue with the local authority

plans for transformation

fit the city long-term

across 200 buildings. Af-

“Central State hospital’s

tion are still in the final-

with WGXA NEWS: The

through public service

ter its closure, remain-

downsizing was a sig-

ization process and the

Green building will be-

advancements in sectors

ing employees lost their

nificant economic blow

construction

come a hotel and will be

such as education and

jobs and patients were

to

are yet to be publicised.

paired with a conference

healthcare,

initiatives

displaced, causing a de-

numerous old asylums

Residents

room and a ballroom

that many residents find

cline in the local tax base.

around the world sud-

geville

for events, while the

to be of great importance.

The reasoning behind

denly became obsolete.

stakeholders are watch-

Jones and Walter build-

“In renovating Cen-

these plans has always

So a worldwide move-

ing this process closely.

ings will be convert-

tral State Hospital, there

circled back to the im-

ment began to rescue

In the meantime, lo-

ed to apartment living.

would be economic ad-

portance

these

“I would have to agree

vantages like job creation

with the preservationists

Milled-

and

Georgia

ic growth in Baldwin

ties as everything from

tors can learn about the

and improved public ser-

County. If these plans

arts centers and offices

significance of Central

about the significance

vices in education and

were to follow through,

to

State Hospital and its

of Central State Hos-

healthcare,” Exner said.

Milledgeville would most

The state of Georgia

pital,” said Eliza Exner,

Revamping the insti-

likely see an increase in

instructed the CSHLRA

a trolley tour with The

a junior public health

tution would, in a way,

employment

to find economic devel-

Milledgeville

major. “Places like this

cancel out the economic

nities, higher incomes

opment

opportunities

Center. More informa-

McMul-

are a safe haven and are

disparities that occurred

and greater tax revenue.

for the old hospital and

tion about the hospital

len of the Central State

important for the men-

after it closed. According

The

rebranded the project to

and its events can be

Hospital Local Redevel-

tal health of the state.”

to GCSU’s official web-

Moonlit Road, a website

“Renaissance Park” for

found through the Vis-

site, the hospital served

that shares stories from

investment

it Milledgeville website.

state agency’s plan to demolish the buildings.

Preservationists

argue

that the hospital’s historical significance is too valuable to be destroyed.”

Chairman

opment Authority de-

Ultimately,

these

According

The dangers of doomscrolling James Cordero

Contributing Writer A student takes a quick 10-minute break from studying, so they pull out their phone to scroll social media a second and suddenly they have lost two hours to TikTok, indulging in the infamous “doomscrolling.”

While doomscrolling may seem harmless, it can have negative effects on the brain like anxiety, sadness and reduced attention spans. Those with preexisting conditions, like anxiety or depression, are even more prone to these effects.

An article from the National Institute of Health reveals that prolonged use of social media can lead to increased social isolation, signs of depression and social comparison pressure.

The loss of attention span has also led to a loss in productivity among students.

Due to the addictive nature

of social media, students tend

structure. With bright colors

to get distracted and do not

and constant alerts, the visual

focus on their schoolwork

part of the brain finds staying

as often or as thoroughly.

away from social media hard.

“There is no such thing

“We have evolved to look for

as

multitasking,

because

new things. Novelty interests

our brains have not evolved

us, so social media is addictive

to handle too many things

because anytime you get a no-

at one time,” said Ashok

tification, it is something new

Hegde, a professor of bio-

and you get a little dopamine

medical sciences at GCSU.

release,” Professor Hegde said.

According to a Stanford

Reduced attention spans

Medicine article, the quick re-

are one of the most prom-

ward system and easy accessi-

inent side effects of doom-

bility make it more common

scrolling; quick access to new

to get hooked on social me-

sources of dopamine spoils

dia. The current society that

the brain and causes it to want

students live in also makes

fast forms of entertainment.

people more susceptible to do-

People with preexisting

pamine-mediated

addiction

conditions are even more

because of social media’s design

prone to the negative effects of

for maximized engagement.

doomscrolling and addiction.

Humans are programmed

Students themselves reach for

to stay connected; for thou-

their phones whenever they are

sands of years, it has kept peo-

bored, have nothing to do, or

ple alive through the power of

have a menial job to complete.

numbers, and social media cap-

“I think everyone does

italizes on that need for social

[reach for their phone] now-

VOLUME 106 | NO. 9

Editorial Board

Mary Ciucevich.............. Editor in Chief Rylee Holland.................. Managing Editor Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Amelia McEwen............ News Editor Emma Tyler....................... Asst. News Editor Benjamin Clark............... Sports Editor Bryan Cade....................... Asst. Sports Editor Arts & Life Editor Kate Walker...............

Sydney Williams.............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Reaghan Shehee............Digital Media Editor Reagan Robinson.......... PR Manager Haley Quimby.................. Ad Sales Manager Mikkel Christensen....... Faculty Adviser

*All Opinion columns are the opinion of the columnist, not of The Colonnade.

opportu-

to

asylum

of

cals, students and visi-

ing the property and the

econom-

community…

proper-

charged with transform-

of

the

timelines

high-end

condos.”

purposes.

adays, because it has so much content on it that you really can’t avoid it,” said Carter May, a freshman environmental science major.

There are, however, strategies you can use to combat the negative effects of social media on the brain. A Harvard medical article proposed taking a break from social media to give your brain time to heal. The article also said that the break should be for about a month

@TheColonnade

dark

history

through Visitors

to decrease the depression and anxiety that come from social media and constant scrolling.

When prolonged exposure to social media is decreased, depressive symptoms decrease as well. Also, one may notice an increase in productivity, whether that is at school or with work-related tasks.

Instead of reaching for the phone, people can indulge in other hobbies, such as walking in nature or painting.

Julia Jensen | Art Director

@TheColonnade

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AMELIA MCEWEN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA TYLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

11.18.2025

NEWS

Student spotlight: Serena Semere Jane Carr

bridging the gap between the

ing student engagement and

tion with multicultural or-

and

Staff Writer

student body and university

representation across all de-

ganizations to make events

with fairness and empathy.”

When Serena Semere first

administration. Her work fo-

mographics. Early in her SGA

more inclusive and accessible.

Those lessons have also in-

stepped onto GCSU’s campus,

cuses on listening, communi-

career, she helped support res-

“We partnered with the

spired her to plan for the future

she was just trying to find her

cating and ensuring that every

olutions addressing campus

International Club for Inter-

of SGA, not just her own term.

student’s concerns are heard.

needs, including the four-hour

national Fest and regular-

“I strive to leave SGA

“I prioritize staying aware

parking policy and the soon-

ly communicate with other

stronger when I graduate

of the issues happening across

to-launch digital Bobcat Card.

multicultural

organizations

and to set up the next ex-

campus so I can truly under-

More recently, she’s proud

to explore ways we can bet-

ecutive board for contin-

stand what students need,”

of helping create the first SGA

ter support them,” she said.

ued success,” Semere added.

Semere said. “We have a feed-

position dedicated to repre-

“That might mean addition-

As she nears the end of her

back survey available in GC

senting graduate students, a

al funding opportunities or

presidency, Semere is focused

Connect that I monitor reg-

move that strengthens commu-

initiatives that better reflect

place. As a first-generation college student, she remembers

feeling

overwhelmed

by the number of opportunities available. It did not take long for her to discover her purpose: helping others and making a difference.

“I started by joining Delta

challenges

on increasing SGA’s visibility and showing students the real

Gamma, which quickly be-

impact of their government.

came a place where I found

“My goal is for the cam-

community and purpose,” Se-

pus community to see our

mere said. “Two members of

impact firsthand,” she said.

Delta Gamma, Kaitley Cong-

“I want students to not only

don and Axel Hawkins, recog-

hear about our efforts but see

nized my passion for helping

us actively making changes

others. Their encouragement

and engaging across campus.”

to join SGA gave me the

After graduation, Semere

chance to advocate for some-

plans to continue her commit-

one else for the first time.”

ment to service by pursuing

That encouragement would

a master’s degree, followed

eventually lead Semere to the highest student leader-

approach

Courtesy of Lauren Harper

by law school. Her ultimate

ularly, and if any member of

nication between undergradu-

our diverse student body.”

SGA becomes aware of an

ate and graduate communities.

Her passion for advoca-

issue, they report it to me so

“We’re actively planning a

cy isn’t just something she

we can address it as a team.”

town hall and open forum to

learned through leadership;

Teamwork and commu-

give students direct opportu-

it’s deeply tied to her academic

nication extend beyond the

nities to share their thoughts

studies. As a double major in

SGA office. Semere meets

and concerns with SGA and

criminal justice and political

regularly

university

Se-

science, Semere has developed

something I want to contin-

leadership to present student

mere said. “It’s important

a strong understanding of how

ue throughout my career.”

concerns and collaborate on

that every student feels like

policies are created and how

From her first days as an

solutions. Whether it’s park-

they have a seat at the table.”

leaders can use their positions

overwhelmed

ing, campus life or inclu-

Transparency and inclu-

to enact meaningful change.

leading the student body, Se-

momentum while continu-

sion, she aims to turn student

sion have become key pillars

ing to advocate for students

feedback into real results.

cam-

ship position on campus: Student Government Association President. After serving two terms as Treasurer, Semere ran for President in her junior year, inspired by the work of her predecessors and determined to continue building on their momentum.

“I saw the incredible initiatives under Axel’s leadership and wanted to maintain that

with

university

leadership,”

low-income

communities.

“I’ve always found purpose in being a voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves,” Semere said. “That’s

freshman

to

mere’s journey has been de-

of her presidency. To ensure

tice and political science has

fined by one thing: advocacy.

Her leadership has already

students stay informed, SGA

shaped my leadership style,”

And as she looks toward the

pus community,” she said.

made a tangible impact. One

now posts all of its archives

she said. “It’s encouraged

future, her impact at GCSU

As SGA President, Semere

of the biggest initiatives under

on

GC

me to think critically, con-

will continue to shape the uni-

serves as the voice for students,

her tenure has been increas-

also

emphasizes

sider

versity long after she graduates.

strengthen

our

AUTUMN DASH

Connect.

Semere

collabora-

criminal

sentation more accessible for

jus-

and

“Studying

goal is to make legal repre-

diverse

perspectives

Because of this strong relationship they fostered with

plan to keep the same course for runners, so there isn’t

Morning Grind, co-hosting this 5k was easy to conjure.

any new change in case they expect a certain path.

“We really wanted to make sure we cared for our

This year, sponsors also brought items for the

local community, especially around the holiday

runners to enjoy before and after the race. Morn-

season,” said Bailey Miller, owner of Ragtag Run-

ing Grind provided drip coffee with cream and sug-

ning. “We wanted to leverage a really fun activity

ar on the side while Chick-fil-A provided chicken

or something more than just a social gathering and

biscuits. In the future, the partnership hopes to ex-

that’s what led to the start of the Autumn Dash.”

pand the race and collect more donations for Cafe

Ragtag Running partners with Black Bag Rac-

Central in their persistent fight against hunger.

betterment of the local community. They began run-

ing for their race timing, so people had the oppor-

The Autumn Dash 5K allowed the com-

ning in Morning Grind’s parking lot and would run

tunity to come out and show off or simply walk.

downtown before heading back and grabbing coffee.

The 5K is designed for everyone, and each year they

Continued from page 1

“By raising money for hunger relief and encouraging food drive donations, supporting this cause will help families in need,” said Amanda Feeney, a junior and exercise science major. “With the holidays coming up and the recent cuts to supplemental nutrition programs, donations are more important than ever.”

Bailey Miller formed Ragtag Running in 2022 as a weekly run club that he wanted to leverage for the

munity

to

unite

and

combat

er-growing

hunger

that

faces

the

ev-

Milledgeville.

4

BENJAMIN CLARK, SPORTS EDITOR BRYAN CADE, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

11.18.2025

SPORTS PREVIEW

through Deshona Gaith-

for me, especially since

21 in her first two games,

having some young kids

“No matter who we’re

er, Bailey Vick, Bolden

Sloane is one of my best

followed by Nylah Nuri

transfer.

excited

playing, everybody in

and Rose Bone. Green

friends. So, it’s exciting to

with 16 in her first pair

to see them showcase

the Peach Belt brings a

ketball made it to the

has

in

be able to share the court

of games. Beavin has

what they can do and

competitive atmosphere,

semifinals in the 2024-

graduate student Hayley

with her and share a lot of

also been successful out-

what we’ve helped them

a competitive team. I’m

2025

howev-

Shepherd, who fans may

time bonding with her.”

side the three-point line

with in the development

excited to play every-

er, the season ended at

know mostly as a player

Among the current

three of seven times.

here in the preseason.”

body; however, my fa-

the hands of the sev-

for the GCSU women’s

seniors, Gaither played

“I think we have a

Bone leads the Bob-

vorite game will be our

Continued from page 1 GCSU women’s bas-

season;

also

brought

I’m

Education Day game,

enth-ranked team, the University

of

having all these kids

North

come in and pack out

Georgia, 63-22 in March.

the Centennial Center,

The Bobcats concluded

it’s a lively atmosphere.”

their season with a 17-

The Bobcats women’s

13 overall record and a

basketball game cele-

9-9 conference record.

“With

the

brates its home open-

smaller

er on Wednesday, Nov.

team, I think it means

19, as they take on the

just staying in shape for

Warriors of Southern

one, we’re only going to

Wesleyan

have five or six subs,”

Universi-

ty at 6 p.m. inside the

Bolden said. “We need

Centennial

to correct the errors, Courtesy of Chandler Davis, GCSU Athletic Department

like fouls and turnovers.”

Center.

“Come out and support us,” Green said. “We

The Bobcats enter the

volleyball team; however,

the most minutes in the

young group that is hun-

cats in rebounds with

season with a 13-play-

she plans to play forward

previous season, aver-

gry this year to compete,”

14, with Wynn follow-

stands. I love being able

er team, including four

for the Bobcats follow-

aging 5.9 points and 2.6

said Catrina Green, head

ing with 11. Gaither ac-

to get out and connect

freshmen in Sloane Vick,

ing the volleyball season.

rebounds in 30 appear-

coach of the women’s

cumulated four steals

with the fans, as they

Elizabeth Wynn, Kay-

“Now going into my

ances. As of the first

basketball team. “A lot

in the game against

continue to pour into

la Sylvain and Caroline

senior year with my

few contests this season,

of them haven’t had the

Young Harris College.

our athletes. Come and

Beavin.

younger

Vick

Beavin has led the Bob-

opportunities to see a

“I’m excited to play all

enjoy us, and support

said. “It’s really exciting

cats in points, putting up

lot of court time, and

the games,” Green said.

us throughout the year.”

The

Bobcats

also field three seniors

sister,”

love having fans in the

GCSU MENS BASKETBALL SEASON PREVIEW Bryan Cade

sity. However, with the

blending in with us,

cats also could not make

can change throughout

day, Nov. 19, at 6 p.m.

Asst Sports Editor

Bobcats’

and they know what

a Peach Belt Confer-

the season, but I want

“I’m excited to play

Georgia College &

thus far this season,

to do my job to chal-

Young Harris twice this

State University men’s

players have definitely

lenge the older guys,

year,” Etter said.“We lost

basketball

up

stepped up to fill any gaps.

like Khalil and Caleb,

to him last year in our

its season with a blow-

A different Green has

to ensure they’re getting

led the Bobcats in points

better. So when it’s time

through the first two con-

for them to go into those

tests, with Khalil Green

games, they have already

averaging 16 points, fol-

been working, been pre-

lowed by C.J. Jones at 13,

pared

opened

out victory and a close loss to a top-15-ranked team in Young Harris, Georgia, with the season opener against Shorter University, Friday, Nov. 14, and its second game against 14th-ranked Lincoln Memorial University, Saturday, Nov. 15.

The Bobcats were one point away from the century mark, beating the Hawks of Shorter University 99-70 to open the season; however, they couldn’t come out with the sweep of the games

performance

and Luke Krawczyk with

“When

practiced.” you

re-

but we’ll get him twice this year, and we should be in mid-season form for both of them, so that’ll be a fun game.”

GCSU celebrates its

11.5. Oscar Lynch leads

cruit players, all these

the Bobcats in rebounds,

guys, they all want two

first home contest the

collecting 5.5 boards per

things,” said Ryan Aqui-

following week, as it

game. Jones has worked

no, head coach of the

faces the Thomas Uni-

well in the playmak-

men’s basketball team.

versity

ing department for the

”They want to win and

on Tuesday, Nov. 25,

the

they want to play. And

at 3:30 p.m. inside the

team with eight assists.

you try to get as many

Centennial

Bobcats,

leading

The

Night

Hawks

Center.

and

guys as possible who

“I think we’re going

Aquino

care more about winning

to catch their eyes, have

brought in a pair of

than about themselves.

freshmen

the

They care more about

season, including guard

the team’s result than

coach

Bobcats Ryan

before

in Young Harris as they

Boston Kersh and guard

fell three points short,

Austin

Mosby-Weems.

Courtesy of Austin Zscach , GCSU Athletic Department

it takes to have a win-

ence playoff appearance

ning

here.”

due to their struggles

The men’s basketball

in the regular season.

team had some struggles

“I’m one of the young-

throughout the 2024-

er guys,” Mosby-Weems

culture

81-78, to the Railsplitters

“They’re great guys,”

of Lincoln Memorial.

said Mason Etter, a ju-

The Bobcats lost a pair

nior on the men’s bas-

of their top five scorers

ketball team. “They fit

entering the season, in-

into the culture really

2025 season, finishing

cluding their 2024-2025

well, so I don’t think

top scorer, Zyair Greene,

we have to do much.

to Indiana State Univer-

and

first game of the season,

They

are

already

the individual’s. That’s why I think they can do something special.”

The

Bobcats

finish

a three-game road trip

some surprises,” Aquino said. “So that way, when we start having some home games, I think there might be a little bit of buzz coming at some point, which

with a game in Cen-

is gonna be fun, and I

said. “So I expect myself

tral,

Carolina,

hope the fans come back

the season with a 9-19

to come into practice

as they battle the War-

out and support the way

record and a 4-14 con-

every day and challenge

riors of South Wesleyan

that they have when

ference record. The Bob-

the older guys. Things

University on Wednes-

we’ve been successful.”

South

5

BENJAMIN CLARK, SPORTS EDITOR BRYAN CADE, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

11.18.2025

SPORTS

MLB Hall of Fame recent

Bryan Cade

In

OPINION

memory,

Asst Sports Editor The Major League Baseball Hall of Fame announced Monday, Nov. 3, the eight new players on this year’s Era Committee ballot, stirring up many mixed opinions by fans of the sport.

The ballot is composed of a few players with drama-indulged careers, such as Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens, as well as Carlos Delgado, Jeff Kent, Don Mattingly, Dale Murphy, Gary Sheffield and Fernando Valenzuela. Each player is based on their contributions to the sport of baseball since 1980.

The candidates need to receive at least 75% of the votes on ballots cast by the 16-member committee to become part of the 2026 Baseball Hall of Fame Class.

The identities of the committee members are currently unknown, and this information will be made public later in the fall. The voting results are scheduled to be announced on MLB Network at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 7.

The eye-catching players on the ballot are Bonds and Clemens, who were significant figures in the steroid era of the sport’s history.

Beginning with Bonds, Major League Baseball’s home run king, having the records for both career home runs and single-season home runs, 762 and 73, respectively. He’s also the career leader in walks, with 2,558, bWAR, or Baseball-Reference WAR, with 162.8, and he holds the record

Bryan Cade | Asst Sports Editor

old and enter the Hall of Fame as soon as possible.

Don Mattingly, arguably one of the most icon-

History, even sports history, is often for-

ic and yet forgotten about Yankees in the history

gotten,

and

while

the

records

that

Bonds

of the organization, won an MVP Award during

holds may need an asterisk next to them, they

his 14-year career, batting .307; however, inju-

should be remembered as the decades pass.

ries stunted his job, forcing him into retirement in

The same can be said about seven Cy Young

1995, yet he has returned to coach with the Dodg-

award winners, including Roger “The Rock-

ers, Marlins, Angels and Blue Jays since then.

et” Clemens. The 11-time All-Star dominated

Dale

Murphy,

a

familiar

favorite

among

through three decades, winning seven earned run

Braves fans, is the only player in the top-13 lead-

average titles, collecting a triple crown in con-

ers of bWAR during the 1980s who is not in

secutive years (1997 and 1998) and having the

the Hall of Fame. Murphy’s 2,796 total bases

third-most strikeouts in MLB history with 4,672.

during the 1980s are the most in that time span.

Once again, Clemens is connected to perfor-

Gary Sheffield cracked 509 home runs and

mance-enhancing drugs. While I’d have the same

drove in 1,676 runs during his 22-year career, hav-

explanation in terms of history that I’d want to see

ing eight 30-home run/100 runs batted in seasons.

him in the Hall of Fame, even as a fan of the New

Sheffield helped the then-Florida Marlins win the

York Yankees, I do believe his personality on the

World Series in just their fifth year of establish-

playing field needs to come into consideration. Cle-

ment, slugging an impressive 1.061 OPS. Howev-

mens was seen on multiple occasions as not the

er, once again, with the era, some of his direct links

best representation of Major League Baseball, often

to performance-enhancing drugs were exposed.

acting as an unpleasant teammate and opponent.

Fernando Valenzuela, who would be inducted post-

While there is only an opportunity for one or

humously, is the only player to win a Cy Young and

mance-enhancing drugs in the history of sports.

two players to be part of the 2026 Hall of Fame

Rookie of the Year award in the same season, doing

Many believe that if a player uses substances to

Class from this new ballot, there are cases for oth-

so at 19 years old. The left-hander completed 11 of the

improve their performance, they should instant-

er players. Carlos Delgado slugged 473 home

25 starts he had that season, finishing eight shutouts.

ly be barred from the ability to be commemorated

runs during his 17-year career, being the To-

A player’s relations with steroids do not matter

in any special way. However, because of the history

ronto Blue Jays’ all-time leader in the category.

to me; what does matter is the history that the play-

that Bonds has contributed to the sport, especial-

Jeff Kent is the best run-producing second baseman

ers brought to the game. Only one, possibly two

ly with the records and stories that follow him ev-

in the history of the sport, slugging 377 career home

of these players will enter the Hall of Fame after

erywhere, he needs to earn that 75% vote thresh-

runs, a milestone for players who played at the position.

their 10 years on their original ballot have expired.

for most Most Valuable Player Awards, with seven.

Bonds was not only the greatest power hitter in the history of the sport, but he was also a threat in the outfield, accumulating eight Gold Gloves, as well as 514 stolen bases. He had nine seasons with at least 30 steals, including a 40-home run/40-stolen-base season in 1996.

It’s easy to look at the numbers, even with just a glance and assume he’s a first ballot Hall of Famer; however, in the ten years he was on the ballot following his retirement in 2007, he only ever received a maximum of 66% of the vote, shy of the 75% threshold. Bonds used steroids, arguably the most infamous case of abusing perfor-

6

KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

11.18.2025

ARTS & LIFE

Beyond the books: finding balance amid burnout Kate Walker

ing, and it doesn’t give

“Make space for oth-

A&L Editor

you the sense of accom-

er things, give attention

project,

plishment

to other needs and get

As

midterms

pass

that

you’re

As part of a course

For some students, in

pose and connection.

nered with Bobcats First

creating a calm envi-

As the university con-

Pagett

part-

being

intentional

help students find pur-

approach,

looking for or the sense of

involved

things

to combat campus-wide

ronment to relax and

tinues to commit to men-

many GCSU students

pride that you once had,”

that give you a pur-

stress through the cre-

reset is key to combat-

tal health advocacy, Goff

are feeling the weight of

explained Shea Pagett, a

pose,” Wilson said. “Re-

ation of the Destress

ting academic burnout.

said some adjustments

papers, exams, readings

senior psychology major.

frame something that’s

Express, a mental health

“I always make sure

to classroom procedures

and

pil-

“And if you fail on one

tedious into a reminder

cart that encourages stu-

that my space when I

and policies could bet-

ing up, leaving some in

of the tasks, then it is a

go home is very clean

ter

support

students

the ditches of academic

major blow to your ego.”

and very peaceful,” said

experiencing

burnout.

burnout. For students,

According to Wilson,

Molly Goff, a junior

these encounters with

academic burnout can

mass

communications

should have less strict at-

burnout can be over-

stem from a variety of

and library science ma-

tendance policies,” Goff

whelming and lead to ir-

factors, including time

jor. “I always pray over

said. “I also wish that we

ritability and depression.

management,

unrealis-

my space, and when I’m

could extend office hours

“Burnout is a state of

tic expectations or stan-

not praying over my

a little bit more and may-

exhaustion, where you

dards and a lack of bal-

space, I listen to white

be even have some more

get caught up in the de-

ance between different

noise or beach sounds.”

virtual office hours to

mands of various tasks

areas of life. Spending too

and become depleted to

much time on academ-

there is a wide range of

busy schedules, as well

the point where you no

ics, he said, can cause

resources available to

as making sure the as-

longer want to do them,”

students to neglect other

students on campus, in-

signments that are be-

said Dr. Steve Wilson,

important aspects, such

cluding services at the

ing introduced are very

director

Counsel-

as sleep, self-care and

Counseling Center and

formative to the lessons

ing Services at GCSU.

community engagement.

exercise programs at the

and not just busy work.”

Wilson said that for

“There needs to be

Wellness and Recreation

The GCSU Counsel-

Center. There is also

ing Center offers free,

a Serenity Den in the

confidential counseling

Student Center for stu-

and psychiatric services,

dents to decompress and

as well as peer support

take time for self-care.

groups and other self-

Beyond official uni-

help resources through

versity resources, Wilson

its website. To learn

also mentioned using

more, visit https://www.

the CORQ app to find

gcsu.edu/counseling. The

student-led

organiza-

Destress Express will also

tions for mental health,

be available in the Den

faith-based groups and

on

other clubs that can

10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

and

finals

assignments

of

experiencing

a balance of health, so-

academic burnout, tasks

cial and physical activ-

may take longer than

ities, making time for

before and feel more

rest, exercise and rela-

challenging,

accompa-

tionships,” Wilson said.

nied by symptoms such

For students strug-

students

as irritability, loss of

gling

interest, lack of moti-

Wilson encouraged re-

vation and exhaustion.

evaluating

“Oftentimes

when

with

burnout, their

time

and activities with a

you’re constantly being

renewed

mindset

on

challenged, the challenge

what’s valuable to them

is no longer as stimulat-

now and for their future.

with

Wilson

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

of why it’s important.”

dents to relax with fid-

Pagett agreed, empha-

get toys, coloring pages

sizing the importance of

and other crafts to take

taking a step back to rest

their minds off aca-

and reaffirm self-worth

demics for a little while.

beyond

academics.

“My

initiative

that

“Take breaks and re-

I’ve been working with

member that you are

is something that helps

not your grades,” Pagett

with academic burnout

said. “It’s okay to take

and just taking breaks

breaks

everyone

between those classes

has it at their own pace,

and understanding that

and you don’t always

sometimes you do need

need to be at the front.”

a break,” Pagett said.

and

noted

that

“I believe that we

accommodate

people’s

Wednesdays

from

HOLIDAY DECOR students on the opposite side of the and breezy weather, students also report other argument for keeping the Continued from page 1

“As soon as it hits Nov. 1, my roommates and I decorate the apartment

debate also have opinions on keeping

enjoying going on walks around campus

fall aesthetics throughout November.

and seeing the leaves changing color.

The fall season is known for coffee

“I absolutely love walking on front

for Christmas,” said Odeya Atar, a

coziness of fall throughout November.

“My family and I look forward to hosting a big Thanksgiving every year,”

junior biology major. “We still cel-

said Dorie McKown, a junior marketing

ebrate Thanksgiving but enjoy see-

major. “It is a nice tradition our family

ing our Christmas decorations up

has that keeps the season of fall alive.”

throughout November and into Jan-

Along with the classic Thanksgiving

uary as it makes the room feel cozier.”

holiday brings a modified “Friendsgiv-

Keeping the Christmas decora-

ing.” Students arrange potlucks with

tions up continues the holiday spirit spreading to visitors. Baking is

Thanksgiving outdoor decor

friends during the month of November

also popular among students and

shops making special fall menus avail-

campus and downtown with my friends

keeps friends and family closeknit.

able. Students report enjoying time with

between classes and seeing the beauti-

“One of my favorite parts of the

friends at Blackbird Coffee downtown.

ful red and yellow leaves,” said Lauren

holidays is baking peppermint Oreo

“I go to Blackbird once a week and

Bledsoe, a junior nursing major. “It

truffles,” said Mallorie McCollough,

get their pumpkin chai,” said Caroline

makes me take time to look around me

a freshman psychology major. “I

Williams, a senior political science ma-

and enjoy the fall weather while it lasts.”

make them every year and they are

jor. “I love everything pumpkin spice

With the comfort of cooling tem-

chess bars, which are a gooey cus-

a hit among family and friends.”

and savoring the cozy fall season.”

peratures and leaves changing, fam-

tard treat, and my friends are bring-

With the coziness of the holidays,

With the comfort of pumpkin spice

ily Thanksgiving traditions are an-

ing

to celebrate the fall season together.

“I am looking forward to hosting Friendsgiving in two weeks,” said Sarah Crowder, a junior criminal justice major. “I am going to make

classic

Thanksgiving

dishes.”

7

KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

11.18.2025

ARTS & LIFE

WICKED MARKETING: HAS IT GONE TOO FAR? Sydney Williams

Asst. Arts & Life Editor As “Wicked: For Good” prepares for its Nov. 21, 2025 release, the film’s marketing campaign has become nearly unavoidable. Limited-edition brand collaborations, themed products and constant online promotions have pushed the movie into the public eye long before it reaches theaters.

Now, some fans are wondering whether the strategy is building excitement or overwhelming the audience.

Aerin Plotner, a senior marketing major, explained how the visibility of the campaign stands out, even when compared to other major film releases.

“I’ll admit that although I love all of the creative ideas with the products for the promotion of ‘Wicked: For Good,’ it’s a bit more than the typical movie,” Plotner said. “Which I don’t think is at all a bad thing; it’s just not what people are used to.”

Even with the large scale of the movie, Plotner believes the franchise is still trying to find a balance.

“I think they are balancing out the hype with the movie with the promotion,” she said. “It’s not all in your face on their media pages. Other brands are subtle with the release.”

Subtle or not, the push behind the film is hard to miss. The first “Wicked” movie, “Wicked: Part One,” was promoted through more than 200 brand partnerships, a number that surprised some viewers.

Maggie Howard, a senior psychology major, felt that the volume had crossed a line.

“That feels like overdoing it,” Howard said. “I understand wanting to

advertise everything, but stick to focusing on the movie and how exciting a musical that came out years ago is getting another chance to shine.”

However, Howard does not feel like the marketing has pushed her away from the sequel. If anything, it added to the anticipation.

“It makes me more excited to watch

cups have all taken on the franchise’s signature green and pink aesthetic.

Plotner said she appreciates strong marketing, but even she has noticed the campaign’s intensity.

“I’m a sucker for nicely done marketing and advertising tactics, but I will admit that some of the items coming out of this seem to be a lit-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

the movie,” Howard said. “There’s such a cinematic experience waiting to happen with this release, and I’m living for it.”

Howard added that she plans to see the sequel in theaters after missing the chance with the first film.

Wicked-themed products have become a regular sight for shoppers.

Dunkin’ drinks, Gain detergents scented after Glinda and Elphaba, R.E.M. Beauty palettes, Takis bags, Le Creuset cookware, Lush bath items, OWALA bottles and even Stanley

tle overboard,” Plotner said. “Going into Kroger, there’s a ‘Wicked’ promotional product in every aisle.”

Allyson Terlep, a senior accounting major, said frequent ads do not affect whether she wants to see a movie, but they do impact how she reacts to the campaign itself.

“I’ll get annoyed with excessive advertisements, but that doesn’t make me want to see what’s being promoted less,” Terlep said. “It just makes me want to see the advertisement less.”

She added that the high volume may have less to do with strategy and more to do with resources.

“I’ve seen a lot more about this movie than I have about other movies that have been coming out recently, but I think it could just be because this is already an established franchise with the finances to do it,” Terlep said.

Despite the extreme amount of Wicked promotional items, some students said the creativity of the collaborations is part of the fun. Plotner described the variety of partnerships across different price points as giving fans options.

“Having a balance of brands that are loud about collaborating, with different price points, makes it fun to decide what items you want to buy,” Plotner said. “But that’s just the shopaholic side of me speaking.”

For many students, the difference between effective marketing and overexposure comes down to originality.

While the volume of collaborations has been noticeable, the campaign works best when it offers something fresh rather than relying on the same visuals or messaging across platforms.

Howard said she mostly wants to see new ideas rather than repetitive ads.

“If your advertising is a smart way, like using Chili’s to make a signature drink, it’s fun,” Howard said. “I feel like I only get annoyed when I see the same things over and over again.”

As the release date approaches, the marketing for “Wicked: For Good” has no plans of slowing down. Whether audiences see it as creative promotion or overdone may just come down to how many more Glinda-scented detergent bottles they encounter between now and opening night.

GCSU Leadership Program hosts Usery Forum Emma Jow Contributing Writer The Usery Forum on Leadership is a presentation series hosted by GCSU Leadership Programs, with the most recent forum taking place on Tuesday, Nov. 11, and hosting speaker Walter M. “Sonny” Deriso Jr., the Founding Chairman and Director of Atlantic Capital Bank and Atlantic Capital Bancshares.

In the forum, selected individuals who display expertise in leadership are invited to speak to GCSU students and foster a leadership-based conversation in pursuit of the GCSU Leadership mission: Leadership for the Public Good.

The series is named after W.J. Usery Jr., a Milledgeville-born politician who served as the 15th US Secretary of Labor and served under five presidential administrations. The forum is funded by his son and daughter, who are passionate about ensuring their father’s legacy inspires the next generation of young leaders.

Notably, Tuesday’s forum took place on Veterans Day, marking the anniversary of the end of World War I. Both the namesake W.J. Us-

ery Jr and the speaker, Walter M. “Sonny” Deriso Jr., are veterans, with their service playing a significant role in their leadership development.

At the beginning of the forum, Dr. Harold Mock, president of GCSU Leadership Programs, introduced Kassie Arps and Bridget Johnson, who are the recipients of the W.J. Usery, Jr. Fellowship, which recognizes exemplary student leaders. Arps then introduced Mr. Deriso to the stage, where he delved into a dialogue about his own leadership and how college-age students can become the best leaders possible.

Deriso’s primary philosophy is the concept of “principle leadership,” a personal code of conduct that he employs in all of his decision making. Principle leadership is allowing one’s morals to guide their leadership, and according to Deriso, the most important characteristics of a principle leader are “integrity, character and trust.”

As the chairman of a bank, Deriso has extensive experience with challenging situations, and stated that one of the most difficult aspects of his job is firing employees. He continued, however, that

good leaders develop good character by going through hard times and experiencing challenges.

Building on that idea, he continued that many young people don’t develop moral qualities that come from overcoming adversity because they choose to avoid difficult situations.

As an attempt to shield his own children from this, Deriso’s sons participate in baseball to ensure they experience the feeling of loss and hardship, thus building their perseverance and ability to stay true to their morals during difficult times.

“Smooth skills don’t make skillful sailors,” Deriso said. “And good judgment comes from experiences, which comes from bad judgment.”

In this, Deriso encourages young people to take risks, as it allows them to learn and grow, taking advantage of their youthful years to make meaningful mistakes that allow them to become better leaders in the future, when the environments have higher stakes.

After his speech, Jimmy Childre, President of Childre Ford, Inc., and Usery Fellow Bridget Johnson sat with Deriso on stage and began a Q&A segment. Students scanned a QR code to

submit questions for Deriso, further opening the conversation and encouraging an honest intergenerational dialogue.

First, Deriso responded to an anonymous question asking what advice he would give to his college-age self.

In response, he stated that he would give him-

Next, Deriso answered a question asking what college students can do to improve their own leadership skills. He stated that students must always “raise their hands,” or volunteer for every opportunity that comes their way. This will build their ability to face a diverse array of situations.

Dash Poem” by Linda Ellis, which highlights the importance of taking advantage of every situation and living a fulfilling life.

The Usery Forum is an important event to GCSU students, constantly striving to bring successful leaders close to aspiring leaders, bridging the gap between

Amelia McEwen | News Editor

self leadership advice.

“Good leaders provide people with self-worth,” Deriso said. “Achieve trust by constantly showing people you are worthy of their confidence.”

Finally, Deriso closed with the statement that as a leader, one must never lose their humility and must always live by their values. He concluded with a reading of “The

generations and allowing those with flourishing leadership experience to share their knowledge with the younger generation who are the future of leadership.

8

RYLEE HOLLAND, MANAGING EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, EDITOR IN CHIEF

11.18.2025

The Caterwaul

CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat

A message from the Colonnade staff On behalf of The Colonnade staff we would like to present our newest submission column, “The Caterwaul.” This is an opportunity for students to share their poetry, flash fiction, photography, drawing, comic strips and more. We are extremely excited to give students more of a place in the paper and for their creativity to be acknowledged and published. We encourage any and all students to reach out and ask questions. In the spirit of GCSU’s mascot, Thunder, the name of this column takes inspiration from all that is a bobcat. Caterwauling is the noise bobcats make often, and that is what The Colonnade intends to do with this column: make noise with your voice.

Never before seen photos courtesy of our Digital Media Editors

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

A letter from the Editor in Chief Dear reader, Know that life has tumultuous twists and turns, but there is always a path present for you. Everything takes time, so remember to take time for yourself.

Don’t be afraid to get out and try something new. You never know where that can lead you. New things lead to new paths, and although those paths come with twists and turns there is almost always something new waiting for you. In times where the twist become harsher and the world seems bleak, remember there is always something new headed your way. Don’t be afraid to embrace it.

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor